24 Feb 2019: Hatfield to Hertford

Closed railway

Was it to be another hot and sunny record breaking February day? Well the seven cyclists at the start in Hatfield were optimistic. The plan was to go to a cafe at Waltham Abbey for elevenses. The route was to be southerly via Potters Bar, Northaw and Crews Hill. Then in a bid to avoid the major roads around Waltham Cross we went through Theobalds Park where it was just a little muddy and on across the fairly new footbridge over the A10. Then heading to the Lea Valley Park we had to cross the railway.  A new footbridge to cross the line has been erected here but it is very steep to get bikes over. However this was not a problem today as the original level crossing is still there and, very strangely, the road barriers were open whilst the railway tracks had barrier tapes put across the lines. Apparently the line had been completely closed for maintenance work.

Then into the park for a little way, past the Olympic canoeing centre and out onto the road for a very short distance before passing the Abbey itself. Just beyond are what must have been the market square and the old High street which are now pedestrianised and have a historical aura.  Here we frequented the aptly named Abbey Cafe.

Opposite the Abbey cafe

Leaving here we retraced our route through the park, over the level crossing and into Waltham Cross. Then we turned a different way climbing up a back lane to Goffs Oak. From here down and up another winding country lane with the lovely name of “Bread and Cheese Lane” and onwards wending our way to Hertford.

puffing up the lane

So whilst Hertford is nicely historical, like Waltham Abbey, our pub of choice was the very modern Wetherspoons called “The Six Templars”. Here we were pleased to meet other members of our cycling group, Jon, Judy, Neil and Steve.

After lunch people dispersed in various directions but some of us went back by a fairly direct route to the start at Hatfield.  Our optimism had been justified, as it had been a beautiful hot and sunny day perfect for cycling at any time of year but especially welcome in February. The overall distance was approximately 40 miles.

peteR
route here